Meet Our Clergy

The Rev. Scott B. Neal was born in Lincoln, Nebraska, the oldest of three children. While he was still a toddler, his family moved to New England and by age ten, they had settled in Northfield, Vermont. He grew up as a member of St. Mary's Episcopal Church, serving in nearly every capacity from acolyte to Eucharistic minister, including choir director for twenty-four years. Scott's lifelong interest in nature and gardening led him to an undergraduate degree in Plant and Soil Sciences from the University of Maine at Orono.

Scott has had successful careers as a computer programmer/analyst and in retail horticulture and floral design. The spiritual aspect of helping people honor the memorable events in their lives eventually led him to the discernment process and recognition of his calling to the priesthood. Scott graduated from the General Theological Seminary of the Episcopal Church and was ordained in 2007. St. James Episcopal Church in Arlington, Vermont, welcomed him as their priest in December of that year.

As St. James' rector, Scott has been an active member of the Arlington Area Clergy Group, the Bennington Interfaith Council, and Vermont Interfaith Action. He also serves on the Commission on Ministry: Committee on Discernment for the Episcopal Diocese of Vermont. In 2012, and again in 2015, Scott was elected to serve as a Deputy to General Convention, the governing body of the larger Episcopal Church. He is known throughout the diocese for his collaborative work style and for being someone who truly lives his faith.

Scott and his wife, Beth, were high school sweethearts and were married shortly after college graduation. They are celebrating their 35th wedding anniversary this year. They have two daughters, Alison and Hilary, who grew up in Northfield. Beth is currently employed as a care provider for United Counseling Services in Bennington, Vermont, working with physically and mentally challenged adults.

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Our History

St. Paul’s story begins in the middle of the Civil War when St. James Episcopal Church in Woodstock, Vermont started sending their priest over to White River Junction. Services in private homes grew into a mission church in the back of Glover’s Clothing Store, and in 1874, the original church was built downtown. By 1882 St. Paul’s was able to...More about our history ≫

How We Worship

Our Eucharist-centered worship reflects our respect for the traditions of the Episcopal Church and our joy in music and prayer. We are fortunate that the sanctuary surrounds the altar in a semi-circle, emphasizing that we worship as the people of God.At a typical Sunday...More about worship ≫